Mosley predicts great F1 season

The close fight at the front of the field between Michael Schumacher and Fernando Alonso, allied to further promise from McLaren and Honda, has left Mosley upbeat about the sport's prospects for 2006.

"I think it was an excellent start to the season," he told autosport.com. "Qualifying worked and the race was really exciting. In fact, it was as good as you could have. It is really looking very promising for the year ahead."

When asked whether it was good for the sport that Ferrari were also back up there, Mosley said: "The old firm are back in business. They were as quick as Renault and Renault were as quick as they were.

"I am sure we are going to have several winners early in the season, and not just Renault and Ferrari. I think a Honda win will happen and for Jenson Button that first win will free him up and allow him to win even more.

"It is probably the most promising start to the season we have had for years. It was exciting and I am looking forward to a great season."